California Court Reaffirms Strict Rules for Revoking a Will
In a California Court of Appeal case known as the Estate of Boyajian (2025) 112 Cal.App.5th 843 (court’s opinion is linked below), the Court, Fourth Appellate District, addressed how a Will may be validly revoked under the Probate Code (section 6120).
The case arose after Layla Boyajian executed a...
When Should You Update Your Estate Plan in California?
You should update your estate plan whenever there is a major life change, a shift in your financial situation, or updates to California law that affect your documents. Common triggers include marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of significant assets. Even without major changes, reviewing your plan...
Can You Do Your Estate Plan Online? Why a Local Lawyer Matters
With so many online tools promising quick, inexpensive estate plans, it’s tempting to think you can handle this important task from the comfort of your couch. But while online forms may seem convenient, they often leave out critical details—details that can make or break your estate plan in California.
How to Minimize Estate Taxes for Your Heirs
Planning your estate isn’t just about deciding who gets what—it’s about preserving your legacy and minimizing the tax burden on your loved ones. While California does not impose a state-level estate tax, your estate may still be subject to federal estate taxes, especially if its value exceeds the federal exemption. At
Leaving a Legacy: How to Include Charitable Giving in Your Estate Plan
Many individuals financially support a variety of charities, and using their estate plan for this purpose is a powerful way to back the causes in which they believe. With the right planning in place, your estate can help the nonprofits and organizations that best align with your values.
When Should I Amend an Existing Trust?
As life evolves, so do your financial and family circumstances. Events like the birth of a child, acquiring new assets, or changes in relationships can impact the plans you’ve set for the future. While trusts are meant to provide security and clarity, they should be reviewed and updated when significant shifts occur....
Irrevocable vs. Revocable Trusts in California: Which Is Right For You?
A revocable trust is best if you want flexibility and continued control over your assets while avoiding probate and keeping your affairs private. An irrevocable trust is better if your priority is asset protection or potential estate tax benefits, since you give up control in exchange for stronger long-term...
Five Common Reasons a Will Might Be Invalid
A will only works if a court recognizes it as legally valid. In California, even small mistakes can lead to a will being rejected, changed, or challenged, which can leave your estate subject to rules you never intended. The most common reasons a will is invalid involve how it was signed, the...
What is a Durable Power of Attorney?
A durable power of attorney (POA) allows someone to act on your behalf if you become unable to manage your own affairs due to physical or mental incapacity. By appointing a trusted individual as your attorney-in-fact, you ensure continuous management of your affairs without court intervention.
Understanding a...Estate Planning Tips for Singles
Today, more and more people are delaying marriage for a variety of reasons, whether it be to become more established in their careers, pursue other interests, or that they simply do not want to get married. While many people believe they do not need to have an estate plan because they are...